16:57A significant portion of the meeting focused on the proposed ordinance amendments concerning the Shade Tree Committee. Residents expressed concerns about the implications of shifting tree maintenance responsibilities to homeowners. The council clarified that while the town is responsible for the initial planting and treatment of trees, maintenance on private property falls to homeowners. This change has led to confusion, especially regarding the costs associated with treating trees against pests like the Emerald Ash Borer. A resident questioned whether the town would continue to cover the cost of insecticide treatments for trees in the right-of-way or if this responsibility would now fully transfer to homeowners.

The council aimed to ensure that residents understood the ordinance’s intent, which was to correct inconsistencies between older and newer laws regarding tree responsibility, rather than impose new burdens. The responsibility for tree maintenance, particularly for trees located in the right-of-way, is consistent with practices in many municipalities, where homeowners are tasked with care after initial planting and treatment by the town. There was acknowledgment of the potential financial strain on homeowners, particularly in cases where hazardous trees need removal. A resident voiced discontent over the requirement for replacement with multiple trees after removal, citing challenges for those facing financial difficulties.

32:55The discussion extended to the complex issue of ownership and maintenance responsibilities for trees in the right-of-way. Various council members and residents contributed to the conversation, revealing a nuanced understanding of property ownership and municipal responsibilities. It was clarified that while the right-of-way is town property, the town does not own it in the traditional sense. Instead, it allows utilities to run lines through the area, with actual ownership remaining with the homeowner, subject to an easement. Homeowners are responsible for maintaining sidewalks and snow removal in this area.

Further debate explored whether trees planted in the right-of-way should be viewed as community assets or individual homeowner responsibilities. The philosophical nature of this discussion highlighted ongoing confusion and disagreement about responsibilities. One council member noted that the question of who owns the trees might never be fully settled, emphasizing the broader context of community planning and aesthetic considerations.

16:57In addition to tree maintenance and ownership issues, the council addressed pressing traffic safety concerns. A public hearing included discussions on traffic issues related to the railroad tracks and problematic intersections. A resident proposed the idea of a four-way stop sign at a particularly dangerous intersection, which had been raised previously without resolution. The borough engineer is tasked with developing proposals to address these ongoing challenges, with involvement from New Jersey Transit to fix signal problems.

32:55A community member expressed concern over the slow response to safety issues, highlighting the challenges faced by small towns in addressing traffic safety. One council member noted the backlog affecting the county’s response to traffic signal requests, pointing out that it may take years before any action is taken.

0:28The council discussed a recent resolution on affordable housing numbers, with no challenges expected before the upcoming deadline. Additionally, a traffic safety meeting with the county was reported, addressing several intersections and proposing a stop line move at High View and Broadway. Concerns about a traffic light at Woodcliffe Avenue and Weis were noted, with the county indicating a minimum five-year waiting period for any action. There was also discussion of potential interim measures to address dangerous conditions at this intersection.